Soul Food

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Soul Food ★★ ½ 1997 (R)

In between the mouth watering servings of fried-chicken, collard greens and catfish unfolds the lives of sisters Williams, Fox, and Long. They struggle to hold their family together by keeping up their mother's Sunday dinner tradition after she becomes ill. As mom's health deteriorates, so do the sisters' relationships with their significant others, turning things a bit soapy and pre dictable. Unfulfilling appetizer for those looking for a stark urban drama, but with an attractive ensemble cast which brings to life truthful characters, it's a hearty feast for those hungry for a heartwarming, contemporary tale. Warmth and humor won over audiences across color lines. Boasts many promising debuts, including director/ writer Tillman and young narrator Hammond. Produced by music producer Kenneth (Babyface) Edmonds. 114m/C VHS, DVD . Vanessa L(ynne) Williams, Vivica A. Fox, Nia Long, Michael Beach, Mekhi Phifer, Irma P. Hall, Jeffrey D. Sams, Gina Ravera, Brandon Hammond, Carl Wright, Mel Jackson, Morgan Michelle Smith, John M. Watson Sr.; D: George Tillman Jr.; W: George Tillman Jr.; C: Paul Elliott; M: Wendy Melvoin, Lisa Coleman.